Rolling Thunder weekend events kick off in nation's capital

WASHINGTON - Motorcycles are rumbling across the nation’s capital for Memorial Day weekend as thousands of veterans and their families made the ride for Rolling Thunder.

Events are happening all weekend to honor veterans and pay tribute to prisoners of war and those missing in action.

On Friday afternoon, the Washington National Cathedral welcomed members of Rolling Thunder for a gathering known as the Blessing of the Bikes.

Later on Friday night, a candlelight vigil was held at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Also taking part at this vigil are the American Gold Star Mothers. These women dressed in all white from all over the country are mothers who have lost their military sons and daughters.

The highlight of the Rolling Thunder events will happen on Sunday as Rolling Thunder members will ride their motorcycles through Washington D.C. in the Ride for Freedom. Riders will start at the Pentagon and finish up on the National Mall with streets filled with people cheering them on.

“I think the first time I rode in it seven years ago, it brought tears to my eyes to think about all the people that were standing on the side of the road thanking us,” said Marine veteran Dennis Desilets.

“We are a family,” said Brenda Einhorn, a family member of a veteran. “We all become brothers and sisters. We all work together. We all have each other's back and we are all here for the very same reason.”

After the big ride Sunday afternoon, there is going to be a rally near the Reflecting Pool. FOX 5 has learned presidential candidate Donald Trump is expected to speak at the rally.

A Rolling Thunder spokesperson said the rally is expected to start at around 2:30 p.m. For people coming out, it is recommended that you arrive early in the morning and expect very long security lines.